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The strategic communication emphasis is for students with a passion for communicating the right information, to the right people, in the right way. This area of study helps students thrive in the high-pressure and cutting-edge fields of corporate communication and public relations.

Why should I study strategic communication?

Organizations need qualified and talented professionals to help them communicate effectively to diverse audiences. These individuals formulate key ideas and, often, address highly sensitive topics on behalf of the organization. Strategic communicators make great leaders and are prized for their analytical skills. 

As an organizational communication major with an emphasis in strategic communication, you'll explore organizational structures, cultures, and effective communication practices while cultivating the skills to relay timely, sensitive, and impactful information.

What can I do with this degree?

The B.A. in Organizational Communication opens doors to a myriad of career opportunities. Our graduates work for businesses such as:

  • Target
  • The Minnesota Twins
  • 3M
  • Amazon

and various marketing groups. You will also find them well-represented in nonprofit organizations such as:

  • Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
  • Ronald McDonald House
  • St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Specifically, the strategic communication emphasis helps students specialize in:

  • Public relations
  • Strategic social media
  • Marketing communication
  • Management
  • Sales
  • Consulting
  • Product and integrated marketing

...and pairs nicely with a minor in leadership studies.

The strategic communication emphasis also prepares students to pursue graduate study in:

  • Law
  • Politics
  • Communication
  • Marketing
  • Management
  • Leadership

What skills will I develop?

  • Analytical thinking
  • Strategic communication planning
  • Communication analysis 
  • Communication in crisis situations
  • Corporate decision making
  • Interpersonal communication
  • Public relations writing 

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

Earn an individualized degree

Students from all emphases within the organizational communication major are required to complete core communication studies courses. You will also benefit from a variety of courses that will help you to succeed in an organizational setting. On top of this, you'll choose courses tailored to your emphasis and other areas of interest. Strategic communication courses offered include, but are not limited to Public Relations Writing and Strategies; Crisis Communication; and Communication Campaigns.

Engage in hands-on learning

All students majoring in communication studies complete an internship in communication. As an organizational communication major with a strategic communication emphasis, your internship will be tailored to your specific area of interest—providing real-world, applicable experience. 

Learn from experienced professors

Our professors have been recognized for their excellence as instructors and scholars and will partner with you as mentors and advisees as you prepare for your future career. Betsy Anderson, Ph.D., APR, has a professional background in public relations and is an active member of the Minnesota Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

Academic Plans and Course Catalog

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158

students majoring in the department

150

students presented at regional conferences in the past 7 years

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